Dr. Teresa Wallace steps up for students

Wallace appointed to Interim Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Education

Joshua Schuetz
Staff Writer

In July 2018, Dr. Teresa Wallace became Interim Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Education.
Her work has always been on the behalf of students of all colors, creeds, and levels of ability. Time and time again, she has shown the dignity and value of education and has stood up for the most vulnerable in the student populace.

“I believe in the power of education; in its power to transform lives,” Dr. Wallace said. She has transformed lives herself; by directing an anti-bullying campaign on campus, serving as a mentor to students, and serving on the Research Sub-Meet, as well as the Faculty Association Executive Committee.

“I am very lucky that I have always had positions I have valued and found meaningful. I would say that my work and my community life centers around education, whether as an educational researcher in my early career, a professor in the College of Education here at Minnesota State Mankato, a member and chair of the Owatonna School Board, a volunteer and consultant in public schools and more,” said Dr. Wallace.

Her service to public schools in the area has been exemplary. As the board chair of her school district, she has negotiated contracts and served as a consultant. At the University of Minnesota, she was part of the University Senate and was also the Chair, Council of Academic Professionals and Administrators.

Dr. Wallace’s accomplishments and life of service have been acknowledged by the State of Minnesota, receiving the Minnesota Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for her work in education.

Dr. Wallace is currently working on efforts to address obstacles to student success. “The goal is to identify students who may not be performing as they wish and help with academic, social and financial reasons that stand in the way. The question really is ‘what does the data tell us and what can we act on to improve and make better?’” said Dr. Wallace.

Her skills and work as a researcher have been incredibly valuable in accomplishing these goals, and the project shows much promise. In her new position, Dr. Wallace has been further empowered to make a difference in students’ lives, as she has in her earlier work to stop bullying on campus and improve educational performance.
When asked what she was most excited for during this school year, Dr. Wallace said, “When a person believes that education can transform lives as I do, then working with individuals within our university to increase student success. It feels important, meaningful and urgent. I’m excited about that.”